Early Times Report
Jammu, Dec 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated the historic significance of abrogating Article 370, stating that its removal has brought lasting peace to Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing the issue in the Rajya Sabha, Shah said, “What to say of bloodshed, no one dared to even throw a stone after the abrogation of Article 370.”
Highlighting the long-standing debate around Article 370, Shah pointed out that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, was against its inclusion.
“Dr. Ambedkar opposed Article 370 and was forced to resign from the Council of Ministers under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru,” he said. Shah emphasized that despite being a temporary provision, Article 370 remained in place for 70 years, with Congress acting as its patron throughout this period.
The Home Minister also recalled warnings from some quarters about potential unrest and bloodshed if Article 370 were revoked.
“Certain people in this very House warned of bloodshed if Article 370 was abrogated,” Shah said. However, he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking decisive action after assuming office for a second term. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi abrogated Article 370 and 35-A with one stroke, proving those predictions wrong,” he remarked.
Shah underscored the remarkable transformation in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation.
“After 33 years, night shows have resumed in Kashmir, and for the first time in 34 years, the Tazia procession was taken out peacefully in the Valley,” he said, noting the restoration of normalcy and cultural activities.
The Home Minister’s remarks reflect the government’s continued focus on integrating Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country and ensuring peace and development in the region.
Shah’s statement also underscores the significant decline in violence and stone-pelting incidents that once plagued the region. The restoration of cultural and social activities, like night shows and Tazia processions, symbolizes the return of normalcy and the confidence of the people in the new era of peace and progress in Jammu and Kashmir. |
